Although discreet, it has an important ecological responsibility, particularly through its role as an exclusive food source for several insects. If you have ever marveled at the beauty of a monarch, tell yourself that this little creature was only able to spread its wings thanks to milkweed! Adult butterflies lay their eggs directly on the leaves, so that the caterpillars can feed on them as soon as the eggs hatch. There are four types of milkweed in Quebec. Common milkweed, the most common, crimson milkweed, very large milkweed and tuberous milkweed. The latter two are uncommon, even being considered an endangered species in the case of tuberous milkweed.
Medicinal and dietary properties
Despite the toxicity of latex, this white and milky substance present in this plant, milkweed has been used for a long time, particularly for its medicinal properties. Thus, the name "milkweed" comes from the Greek Asklêpios, which is the name of the god of medicine in Greek mythology. Indeed, long before the arrival of settlers in America, the First Nations used it for its health benefits, for making clothing, ropes, as well as in food. Indeed, the different parts of this plant can help treat digestive disorders, asthma, fever, warts and even respiratory problems.A research project on milkweed seeds and follicles (the pod containing the silk fibers) also revealed that they contained omega 3, 6 and 9, lipids that promote good health, as well as terpenes (odorous plant molecules) with anti-inflammatory properties. But these health benefits are not the only virtues of milkweed. Indeed, prepared in the right way and picked at the right time, its various components, such as the pods, young shoots and still-closed flower buds, can be served for consumption, if you know how to do it!
Clothing manufacturing
During World War II, the American army used milkweed silk to make life jackets for aviators. But this example is only one of the many innovations that the industry of this resource has seen since the 20th century. Timidly at first, then more and more in recent years.In fact, more and more companies have tried to use this plant to make certain products. Whether for coats, boots or gloves, several companies have wanted to replace the down and synthetic materials frequently used with milkweed silk, such as Monark Eco Fiber, Quartz Co, Monark Cooperative… For what reasons? The plantations of this resource require less water and care than many clothing fiber farms and the cultivation plans for this “American silk” are much more resistant. Unfortunately, several of these companies have had to close their doors or put their projects on hold. The cause is a lack of focus on the machinery and processes used to harvest and transform this resource.
In addition, it takes a long time to produce a little good quality silk, so most companies have not been able to meet the demand... This resource takes time to produce and transform! However, some companies continue to emerge and are starting slowly. This is the case, for example, of Lasclay with its manufacture of mittens insulated with milkweed silk or Atypic Equipment with its production of jackets and coats. Milkweed silk also has many advantages such as the fact that it is hydrophobic (which does not absorb water), that it is an excellent thermal insulator, that it is hypoallergenic, ultra-light, in addition to being 100% biodegradable. The public's enthusiasm for using this plant is therefore understandable since these are eco-responsible and locally manufactured products! It is therefore a very promising market for all those who wish to improve their consumption habits, and which is emerging slowly but surely!